Re: Mike "Being Civil About Opinions"

When is it appropriate for a teacher to express his or her opinions on their students? What about the students voicing theirs? We all have the right to voice our opinions, but how far can it go until it becomes harmful? When is it okay?

I remember my history teachers never gave their opinions about political issues and you could never tell which way they really felt. I think it is important for teachers not to give their opinions because it influences the opinions of the students. Of course when students write a paper for them they are more likely to choose the teachers side of the argument because the student thinks that it is what they want to hear and that they will get a better grade. Because of their role of authority it is important that the personal biases of the teachers do not get in the way of what they are teaching. It is okay for students to voice their opinions because they do not have a professional role. In most discussion based classes the teacher or professor acts as the moderator and does not post a view point because of their influence. If you ask a teacher after class what their opinion is I think it is okay if they answer. My science teacher went over evolution my sophomore year of high school. My friend asked him if he truly believed in it, when he was not in front of the class. He answered her by saying, "Sometimes I look at the sunset and I just know that someone must have painted it." When it comes to religious affiliation I think that is okay for teachers to say what their opinions are as long as they do not try to force them on to others, it is in private, and as long as it does not cause a religious debate.

Question: How does the role of a teacher influence you and your opinions in comparision to peers and parents?